scene: A mix of fancy and faff, in one of the most gorgeous rooms in New York City
sip: Cocktails like the Mother of Pearl or Proud Mary were delicious, but you can always opt for a good ol' Greyhound - Or go the opposite direction and order $550 bottles of Vodka and Champers
savor: Smoked Salmon Tart, Burger with Fries, Foie Gras French Toast
sit: The banquettes are super tight for larger groups, but perfect for 2-6 with a breathtaking view
scene: Light wood sushi bar, small bar in the entrance for waiting people and tables throughout. Nicely done, not a lot of vibe, just a big fish over the sushi bar
sip: Sake to me!!
savor: Omakase!!!
sit: By yourself; with fish-loving friends, expense account a plus
spend: $$$
address: 208 West 23rd Street (between 7th and 8th)
scene: Midtown mish-mosh of after-workers, meet for drinkers and out of towners; front room for drinks and bites is always pretty packed, back rooms have warmer, bistro-like feel
sip: speciality cocktails, wines, anything
savor: crispy artichokes; grilled casear; take your shot
sit: For a business dinner; for a catch up with a friend who lives in another part of town; with people visiting and staying in midtown
spend: $$
address: 124 West 57th Street (between 6th and 7th, in the Viceroy, but separate entrance)
scene: The hottest table in NYC right now, so prepare to fight your way to the bar and shout to your friends; High ceilings and big windows, but warm wood softens the industrial-style space
sip: House cocktails are offered (various concoctions with port, madeira, sherry, and gin - apparently it's popular now in Barcelona), but opt for sangria on tap or a Spanish Red from the fairly reasonable wine list
savor: Erizos Con Caviar, Setas, Ensalada Cortada, Lobster & Black Truffle Paella
sit: A table away from the bar is ideal for your eardrums, and a seat with a view of the open kitchen in back is even better
spend: $$$
address: 85 10th Avenue (entrance on 15th Street, right at 11th Ave)
sit: Date night here might be tricky- the decoration says " special occasion" but the rest of the vibe is not that formal, so make sure that your dining partner is a)informed and b) not waiting for the ring; business associates; parents from out of town
spend: $$
address: 455 Madison Avenue (between 50th and 51st)